As you know, in our last update we explained that you should all follow the guidance of the government with regard to Coronavirus. This remains our guidance.
The guidance is changing daily and as such we are not publishing information that would be out of date as soon as it is published. We are saying that you should follow government guidance.
I know this guidance has been confusing for some people as UKMSA is not saying definitively to close your Sheds. We are not a governing body over Sheds and cannot tell you to close, we do however continue to ask that you follow the Government guidance to prevent the spread of the virus. It does seem however that to keep Sheds physically open would be contrary to government advice.
The Government guidance is for everyone, including children. It advises on social distancing measures we should all be taking to reduce social interaction between people in order to reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19).
This advice is likely to change and become more restrictive so please stay in touch with reputable news channels, NHS websites and the Government website. You can find the latest guidance online here.
Information taken from the Government’s website today Monday 23rd March states –
‘What is social distancing?
Social distancing measures are steps you can take to reduce social interaction between people. This will help reduce the transmission of coronavirus (COVID-19). They are to:
- Avoid contact with someone who is displaying symptoms of coronavirus (COVID-19). These symptoms include high temperature and/or new and continuous cough.
- Avoid non-essential use of public transport when possible.
- Work from home, where possible. Your employer should support you to do this. Please refer to employer guidance for more information.
- Avoid large and small gatherings in public spaces, noting that pubs, restaurants, leisure centres and similar venues are currently shut as infections spread easily in closed spaces where people gather together.
- Avoid gatherings with friends and family. Keep in touch using remote technology such as phone, internet, and social media.
- Use telephone or online services to contact your GP or other essential services.
Everyone should be trying to follow these measures as much as is practicable.
We strongly advise you to follow the above measures as much as you can and to significantly limit your face-to-face interaction with friends and family if possible, particularly if you:
• are over 70
• have an underlying health condition
• are pregnant
This advice is likely to be in place for some weeks. We ask you all stay safe and healthy and keep talking and supporting each other.